Diabetes is a chronic disorder that involves trouble regulating one's blood sugar. Diabetes experts at Children's Boston Hospital suggest that those with the disease eat five to six times daily at regular intervals. In order to accomplish this goal knowledge of healthy snacks that won't disturb blood sugar levels is essential.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables can have a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. They offer a variety of helpful nutrients, including vitamins, water and fiber all of which promote blood sugar balance and overall physical wellness. Aim for four or more servings of vegetables and at least three fruit servings per day for best results. They can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a combination-style snack. One piece of fresh fruit, such as an apple, orange or pear or 1/2 cup fresh fruit salad makes for a healthy snack, as does 1 cup fresh or 1/2 cup cooked vegetables. Fresh cut fruit and vegetable wedges can serve as healthy substitutions for processed snack foods, such as potato chips or pretzels. Dip vegetable sticks in low-fat hummus or dip or top low-fat yogurt with berries for a balanced snack. Avoid dried fruits and juices that contain high amounts of sugar as these may disturb blood sugar levels.
Whole Grain Crackers
The City of St. Louis Department of Health suggests snacks that contain 12 to 15 grams of carbohydrate and recommends whole grain carbohydrate foods over processed, white flour-based foods. Enjoy eight animal crackers, three standard graham crackers, five slices of rye toast, 35 goldfish crackers or 12 wheat crackers as an acceptable diabetes-friendly snack. To ensure the crackers are made primarily from whole grains, check the ingredient list on the packaging. Whole grains should be listed within the first two to three ingredients. Seek whole grain cracker substitutes for processed crackers at your local grocery or health food store.
Low-Fat Yogurt
Researchers at Harvard University found a positive correlation between low-fat dairy products and reduced risk for type 2 diabetes. In addition, low-fat dairy products, due to their content of lean protein, natural carbohydrates and nutrients such as vitamin D and calcium may promote healthy blood sugar levels. Enjoy one cup of low-fat yogurt on its own or topped with fresh fruit, as a health, diabetes-friendly snack. Frozen yogurt generally contains more sugar and fewer nutrients so choose yogurt cups most often. If you do desire frozen yogurt, enjoy 1/2 cup as a snack in order to stay within appropriate carbohydrate allowance.
